State Senator Patty Ritchie announced Senate passage of her bill to name the Interstate Highway 81 Ft. Drum Connector “Paul Cerjan Memorial Highway,” in honor of the late US Army Lieutenant General Paul G. Cerjan. The Assembly is expected to act on the measure later today.

“Naming this roadway in honor of General Cerjan is a great tribute to a man who gave so much to his country—and to the North Country,” said Senator Ritchie.

“General Cerjan’s passion was serving his country. When he retired, much of his life was devoted to supporting soldiers and their families. It’s fitting that we name this roadway after him, because that’s just what it will do, make things easier for our troops and their loved ones.”

A Rome, NY native, General Cerjan served in the Army for 34 years. He served as the Assistant Commander for Support of the 10th Mountain Division from 1985 to 1988.During that time he was responsible for the planning, programming and execution of a $1.2 billion construction project, which transformed Ft. Drum from a small reserve training center to a world class military installation.

After his retirement in 1994, General Cerjan continued to contribute to both our nation and the North Country.He served as CEO of several organizations in direct support of soldiers in combat and also served as president of three universities, helping to shape the minds of the future leaders of our country. In addition, he remained actively involved with the National Association of the 10th Mountain Division and was the co-chair of the 10th Mountain Division Scholarship Fund.

The I-81 Ft. Drum Connector will provide a safer, faster and more environmentally friendly way for 10th Mountain Division soldiers, their families and visitors to travel to Ft. Drum.It will also enhance the rapid deployment capability of our country’s only East Coast Light Infantry Division.